The novena theme this year is ‘Witness to hope’ and it will focus on honouring the 15 people who were witnesses to the Marian apparition at Knock 135 years ago in 1879. It is also intended to highlight the hope and prayers of the faithful for the renewal of the Church in Ireland at this time.

Knock parish priest Fr Richard Gibbons, who will himself speak during the novena on Thursday August 21st, said: “There is a new departure this year with the national novena - and as part of the 135th anniversary celebration of the apparition - we have developed a faith renewal programme incorporating seminars and workshops designed to give people a practical as well as an intellectual approach to the lives of pilgrims.

“There is something for in Knock for everyone in 2014! As usual our novena sessions will give everyone a great sense of encountering The Lord, together through the Eucharist, and also other sacraments such as Reconciliation/Confession. All are welcome.”

Daily Mass and prayer sessions will be complemented by seminars and workshops to assist the faith development, and faith renewal, of the pilgrims in attendance.